Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, best known for playing Ahanna in the 1995 film Rattlesnake, has died at the age of 57 following a brief illness.
His family announced his death in a statement posted on his official Instagram page on Friday, October 23, 2026, but did not disclose the nature of the illness. The family also appealed for prayers and understanding as it mourns the actor.
Duru’s death comes months after he dismissed social media reports claiming he was critically ill. In June, the actor described videos circulating online about his health as fabricated and urged the public not to believe the claims.
He rose to prominence as Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the crime drama directed by Amaka Igwe, a performance that remains one of his most recognisable roles. His acting career began in 1989 with Missing Mark, before he studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, graduating in 1996.
Beyond acting, Duru served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in 2010, contributing to the industry beyond his screen performances.
AGN National President Abubakar Yakubu paid tribute following the news, describing Duru as “another great thespian” lost to the industry.
The actor’s family had suffered a major loss in August 2024, when his 15-year-old son, Ifeanyi, died. Duru is survived by his wife, Adokiye, and their children.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced. Duru’s death marks the end of a career spanning more than three decades in Nigerian film and television.
Author
Leave a comment